Day 4: New York City Guide to Downtown Manhattan

Welcome to Day 4 of my method to the madness that is New York City! Below you’ll find a comprehensive guide to these must-see spots, divided into a 4 day itinerary. I’ll also include transit information to help you get from place to place — let’s go!

Here is the newest item on this tour! The World Trade Center Transportation Hub was completed this year, and serves as a base for over 250,000 travelers a day. It’s state of the art structure and interior filled with shops makes it one of the most fascinating pieces of architecture in the city to date!

(4 minute walk – 180 Greenwich St)9/11 Memorial

Located at the base of the former twin towers are two fountain memorials. The names of those whose lives were tragically taken on September 11, 2001 are carved in the stone surrounding, and the water below streams toward a hollow center. Take in this striking memorial as it leaves a void where the buildings once stood.

(1 minute walk – 1 World Trade Center)Freedom Tower

Seated nearby is the shining Freedom Tower, which is the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center. Boldly it stands as the largest skyscraper in New York AND the Western Hemisphere, representing the patriotism and strength Americans have for their country.

Right in the downtown Financial District you’ll find the famous Wall Street. Home to many headquarters, they are well known as the home for the New York Stock Exchange. Wander down taking in the robust structures and suit-clad men and women.

(6 minute walk – Morris St and Broadway)Charging Bull

You can’t go this far downtown without taking a picture with a 7,000 pound bronze sculpture! This bull is the symbol of “aggressive financial optimism and prosperity,” and attracts thousands of visitors a day.

(4 minute walk – 4 Whitehall St)Staten Island Ferry

If that peek of lady liberty wasn’t enough, hop on the Staten Island Ferry to get a closer look! You will be joined by many commuters and tourists alike. Snap photos as you ride the ferry across the front of the Statue of Liberty both ways. The best part? The ride is free!

(1208 Surf Ave)Coney Island

Escape deep into Brooklyn to wake up in an amusement park dream. Filled to the brim with all the treats, eats and rides you could imagine! Walk a few feet to enjoy the beach, or keep up with the many events (like the Mermaid Parade) going on throughout the year.

(Canal St)Chinatown

Try out this neighborhood in southern Manhattan to satisfy all your haggling needs. Along the streets in Chinatown you’ll find designer purses, sunglasses, scarves etc. all ripe for the picking. Stick around to try traditional Asian cuisine and experience culture!

(Grand St)Little Italy

This last neighborhood in lower Manhattan is exactly what they call it. Wander through the blocks to experience all sorts of Italian culture, shops and dining. And don’t forget, no trip to Little Italy would be complete without a fresh cannoli!

Believe it or not, this guide just covers 1 out of the 4 days of this guide to New York City! Check out the highlights of Uptown, Middle and Lower Manhattan below!

Miss All Over the Place [Kate Mitchell], is a NYC based flight attendant and adventurer from Texas, currently residing in the Garden State. She can't stay in one place for long, and is a lover of performance, art, food, travel, and trying all things new. To keep up, follow her lifestyle and travel blog, MissAllOverThePlace.com!